Need Differential Opinions Please

MoonSwine

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Hi All,

I'm new to the forum and registered because I have a few questions. I have a 2007 Silverado 1500 HD. My rear differential went out yesterday. Bearing came apart and busted the gears. I've read the differential rebuild threads and can tell that it's not an easy DIY job.

So, I'm looking for used Rear Axle Assemblies and, of course, there are a bunch of options. I currently have the following options:

1. 8.6" ring gear
2. 3.42 gears
3. Posi trac
4. Active Brake JL4
3. JF3 (??)

I'm finding more used assemblies with out active brake. So, I'm wondering how important it is to get active brake. Is it required to operate properly? I assume Active Brake is ABS. What problems am I going to encounter if I get a used assembly without the active brake? Also, If I go from 3.42 to 3.23, is that going to cause any issues on a 2wd truck?

Thanks for any opinions. I'm trying to repair this thing with the least amount of money possible. If it's not a big deal and won't cause any issues, I have more options avaialble at a better cost.
 

Zembonez

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3:42 from 3:23 is almost no difference. Other than your speedo being off by a mile or two you won't notice any difference. You are going to want to stick with one with your options though.
 

MoonSwine

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Thanks for the reply Zembonez. Are you saying I need to stick with the Active Brake??

So I can order a used rear axle assembly with different gears on a 2wd without any issues. Thanks for that confirmation.

Right now, I'm looking at 1200 delivered for a used one with 120K miles. I'm trying to find something with lower miles.

Anything you would do different in my situation besides buying a used unit? Doesn't seem like many places around Texarkana want to rebuild the current one.
 

mr_bots

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Look in your glove box, there should be a sticker with a bunch of three letters/numbers. Those are the RPO codes that show what options your truck has. G80 is the locker/limited-slip GM uses, JL4 is automatic tranny with active brake control (stabilitrak), and JL3 is the manual tranny with it.
 

thunderstruck

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You are not going to like the 3.23 ratio, especially in a HD truck.
 

Zembonez

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You are not going to like the 3.23 ratio, especially in a HD truck.
I think that is what he has now.:dunno:

I also find that odd in an HD. Might wanna double check that for sure.

Moonswine... Is this a GMT800 or GMT900 truck? (I've never seen a GMT900 HD 1500)
 

gmctrucks

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Shop around different towns it just might save you money and you might find one with less miles.
 

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